Low vision, especially when it affects young people and results from a rare and poorly understood disease with various sequelae, often presents an overwhelming obstacle for those who suffer from it. This is not only due to the more obvious consequences, such as impaired vision, but also because of the serious barriers it creates for socialization, personal development, and behavior, affecting both the individual and the society around them, which is typically unaware of the real implications of such conditions.

Through their own experiences, partner organizations have witnessed the fundamental importance of youth associations in overcoming these obstacles. Only through the formation of associations or groups can young people learn from others’ experiences, more easily develop friendships, and tackle the profound daily challenges they face. Additionally, forming entities is the only way to raise awareness about their reality, establish collaborative relationships with professionals (doctors, psychologists, technicians, trainers, guides, etc.), and build the necessary framework to thrive in educational, social, occupational, and personal aspects.

However, due to the characteristics of these conditions and often the limited number of affected individuals, youth associational activity among those with low vision (especially if caused by rare diseases) remains scarce. Many countries, both within Europe and beyond, lack associations that bring together these young people. Where they exist, they often focus on scientific research rather than providing direct support, which typically leads to low engagement from young people themselves. This is especially pronounced in Eastern Europe and Latin America, where young people with low vision face particularly grave challenges, limiting their ability to achieve life goals and develop fully.

In many cases, they lack consolidated public socio-health systems and strong associations for support. Therefore, European collaboration with these geographical areas presents a significant opportunity to empower organizations and young people with these conditions, offering them valuable tools that can profoundly impact their daily lives.

It is essential to foster a supportive structure that brings together young people with low vision, enabling them to build networks and take action for their inclusion. However, this is not a simple task. On one hand, there is often an initial impulse among affected young people to hide their condition, wishing to overcome societal barriers born out of fear and ignorance about the condition. On the other hand, they frequently undervalue their ability to undertake these kinds of projects due to an environment that often does not believe in their potential.

To overcome these obstacles to the active participation of young people with low vision and promote their association and inclusion, the *Together for Inclusion: Young People with Low Vision for Active Participation, Awareness, and Associationism AROUND THE WORLD project aims to: